Canterbury earthquake memorial to be unveiled

The sixth anniversary of the February 22 earthquake is a significant moment for Cantabrians and all those affected by the devastating events of that day in 2011.

The Minister supporting Greater Christchurch Regeneration Gerry Brownlee and Associate Minister Nicky Wagner say today’s commemorations are particularly important, as the unveiling of the Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial provides those who lost a family member or friend with a dedicated place to remember and reflect.

“The memorial will be a place for people to remember a day that changed Canterbury forever,” Mr Brownlee says.

“It honours the 185 people who lost their lives, acknowledges those who were seriously injured and pays tribute to everyone involved in the rescue and recovery operation.

“The anniversary is a day to remember what we have lost, but also to reflect on the progress made in Canterbury over the past six years,” Mr Brownlee says.

Ms Wagner says the memorial, designed by Slovenian architect Grega Vezjak, features a 112-metre-long wall made up of a 517 marble panels.